How to add dimensions to your 2D drawing automatically in SolidWorks?
Short Answer
Yes — in SolidWorks you can add dimensions to your 2d drawing automatically using Model Items, which imports dimensions already defined in the part or assembly into selected drawing views. This is the most common professional method for speeding up detailing. Limitation: it only brings in dimensions that already exist and are suitable for drawing use.
What You Need to Know Before
Warning: automatic dimension import often pulls in too many dimensions, including duplicate or poorly placed ones from model features not intended for manufacturing drawings. If the 3D model was not dimensioned cleanly, your drawing can become cluttered very quickly.
How to Add Dimensions Automatically in SolidWorks
Command: Model Items
Shortcut: No default keyboard shortcut
Quick Steps:
- In the drawing, go to Annotations tab > Model Items on the CommandManager, or use Insert > Model Items.
- In the PropertyManager, choose the source such as Entire model or Selected feature, then select the target drawing view.
- Turn on a real option like Import items into all views or filter by Dimensions marked for drawing, then click OK.
Variables & Settings
Key Setting: Dimensions marked for drawing
Expert Setting: if you enable importing only Dimensions marked for drawing, SolidWorks inserts only dimensions that were specifically flagged in the model for drawing use. This greatly reduces clutter and is the preferred setting for controlled production drawings.
Why it Fails
Cause 1 (Geometry): the model does not contain usable feature dimensions, or the dimensions are not visible from the selected drawing view orientation.
Cause 2 (layers/Locks): imported annotations may land on a drawing layer that is hidden or controlled by document properties, making them appear missing.
Cause 3 (Command/Logic): Model Items only imports existing model dimensions; it does not automatically create full drafting dimensions for every edge like a manual dimensioning workflow.
Quick Fix & Best Practice
Quick Fix: reopen Model Items and switch to Dimensions marked for drawing, then select only the required drawing view instead of importing into all views.
Manager’s Verdict: use Model Items when the 3D model is fully dimensioned and drawing-ready; avoid relying on it for messy legacy models, where manual cleanup can take longer than dimensioning properly from the start.
FAQ
Can SolidWorks automatically dimension every part of a 2D drawing?
No, it mainly imports existing model dimensions rather than creating a complete drawing layout automatically.
Why are no dimensions appearing in my drawing view?
The model may not have eligible dimensions, or the selected view does not support their display.
Can I control which dimensions are imported?
Yes, use Dimensions marked for drawing or select specific features during the Model Items command.
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